St John's wort, the facts regarding the use of it for depression.

St John's Wort, the facts regarding the use of it for depression.
 

ST JOHN'S WORT Botanical Name: Hypericum perforatum

‘St John’s Wort’ is a perennial herb that is sometimes used by people to treat depression.
St John’s Wort has many other common names throughout the world, including Tipton’s Weed, Rosin Rose, Goat Weed, Chase Devil, or Klamath Weed.
The name ‘St John’s Wort’ may be used to refer to any species of the genus Hypericum.
It has been used for centuries throughout the world to treat depression and studies have also been done to see if it has any benefit on other conditions such as anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. It has also been used to try to help with insomnia, pre-menstrual tension, symptoms of menopause and even eczema.


There have been many conflicting studies regarding the benefit of ‘St John's Wort’ for depression but the overall consensus in the medical field is that it can benefit mild depression but should never be used with those suffering from mild to severe depression. It should also never be combined with an antidepressant.

The general public also needs to be aware that it can also interact with many other medications.


It has not been shown to be effective for any other illnesses or ailments mentioned above as there is no solid evidence available for any benefit.


MEDICATIONS THAT IT CAN INTERACT WITH:
- antidepressants
- birth control medication
- blood thinners
- digoxin
- medication for HIV - medication for cancer
- dilantin
- cyclosporine
- narcotics
Please note these are only the main drugs it can interact with. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before trying it. It must never be given to children or be used by women that are pregnant or breast feeding.


SIDE EFFECTS OF ‘ST JOHN’S WORT’:
St. John's Wort’ is LIKELY TO BE SAFE when taken by mouth for up to 12 weeks.
Some evidence suggests it can be used safely for over one year.
It can cause some side effects such as trouble sleeping, vivid dreams, restlessness, anxiety, irritability, stomach upset, fatigue, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, skin rash, diarrhoea, and tingling.
Take ‘St. John's Wort’ in the morning or lower the dose if it seems to be causing sleep problems.
St. John's Wort is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in large doses.
When taken by mouth in large doses, it might cause severe reactions to sun exposure. Wear sun block outside, especially if you are light-skinned.



SUMMARY
‘St John's Wort’ may help people with mild depression but you need to seek advice from your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medications.
Depression must be taken seriously.
If your level of depression is medium or higher, then please seek medical advice as soon as possible.


If you have any thoughts of harming yourself or others then call your local doctor, counselling service and/or your local emergency number for the ambulance.



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REFERENCE:
WEB MD, e.g.  http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-329-ST+JOHN'S+WORT.aspx?activeIngredientId=329&activeIngredientName=ST.+JOHN'S+WORT&source=2&tabno